The Baton Rouge Metro Council is considering lessening the penalty for possession of an ounce or less of marijuana to a misdemeanor ticket, according to the political website LaPolitics.

LaPolitics cites “sources very close to the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Council” and says they are “quietly considering” the proposal. In a conservative parish like East Baton Rouge, LaPolitics says no one wants to be the person to bring the proposal forward.

The sources said that the change would help clear out jail space and allow law enforcement to focus on more serious crimes.

Current state law says anyone convicted of possessing even a small amount of marijuana can be jailed for up to six months for a first offense. Repeat offenders can be sentenced up to five years and face up to a $2,500 fine. Those convicted three or more times can be sentenced to up to 20 years in jail and a $5,000 fine.